Dumping disgrace
By Sam Porter
When Brimbank resident Emma Mendelsohn recently visited the Maribyrnong River Trail, she was shocked bytheamountofillegallydumpedrubbish andindustrialwastepollutingthearea.
“This is acres and acres of what could be the most beautiful river trail. It’s like walking in a tip. It’s intimidating,” she said.
At River Valley Boulevard in Sunshine North, forgotten cars are left to rust, tyres and litter are strewn across grasses and, more recently, a small rundown truck has been abandoned, standing idle among trees.
It’s an issue that’s been ongoing since 2014,MsMendelsohnsaid.
Ms Mendelsohn is urging the company that owns the land, YourLand Developments, as well as government authoritiestoacturgently.
She wants to see the waste cleared and stronger security measures enforced to preventfurtherillegalwastedumping.
“We’re running a key habitat for all the native wildlife in this corridor. It goes to politicalneglectthatthisisnotbeingmade a priority. Nobody’s doing anything,” Ms Mendelsohnsaid.
“It’s not something a community group can do. It takes a more bureaucratic responsewithrulesandenforcement.”
In a statement to StarWeekly , Brimbank mayor Thuy Dang said there are sections of the Maribyrnong River corridor that are theresponsibilityoftheprivatelandowner.
“Council is committed to working with businesses, residents, and government authorities to remove rubbish and hold
rubbish dumpers accountable for their actions,”CrDangsaid.
“We understand this can take time, and that the amount of rubbish being dumped isofgreatconcerntoeveryoneinvolved.
“Illegal rubbish dumping is a growing problem in our city, as it is in other local government areas in the west. Council has recently announced a comprehensive
action plan to crack down on illegal rubbish dumping that includes increased surveillance, stricter enforcement, and communityeducationprograms.”
An Environment Protection Authority (EPA) spokesperson told Star Weekly officers had attended the site and said it requiredaclean-up.
The EPA also said that when the
perpetrator of waste dumping can’t be identified, the responsibility falls to the landmanagertocleanitup.
YourLand Developments was contacted forcomment.
Ms Mendelsohn is worried the issue will remainignored.
“It needs highlighting. It needs pushing. Itneedsaccountability,”shesaid.
The issue of waste dumping at River Valley Boulevard in Sunshine North has been ongoing since 2014. (Pictures: Emma Mendelsohn)
We’re building the Metro Tunnel and there will be disruptions
As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re building the Metro Tunnel and its five new underground stations, with three stations now complete. Work is continuing on two stations, and we’re testing trains through the tunnel to make sure they operate smoothly and safely.
Train disruptions: Buses replace trains in both directions
Werribee Line
8.30pm 8 Aug to 5am 9 AugNewport to Werribee
5am 16 Aug to last train 17 Aug
8.30pm 8 Aug to last train 17 Aug Laverton to Werribee
8.30pm to last train, 11 to 13 AugNorth Melbourne to Werribee
8.30pm 15 Aug to 5am 16 Aug
Williamstown Line
8.30pm to last train, 11 to 13 AugNorth Melbourne to Williamstown
8.30pm 15 Aug to 5am 16 Aug
Sunbury Line 15 to 17 AugPassengers change at Footscray Station for Werribee and Williamstown line trains to and from the city
Road disruptions: Closed lanes and ramps
West Gate Freeway, Spotswood Until late AugOutbound lanes between Williamstown and Millers roads
West Gate Freeway, Brooklyn Mid to late AugOutbound exit ramps to Millers Road and Grieve Parade
Williamstown Road, Spotswood Mid to late AugOutbound entry ramp to West Gate Freeway
Arden Station
Brimbank cancels permit
By Sam Porter
Sydenham residents who had expressed concerns about planning permit for a supported residential services (SRS) facility are breathing a sigh of relief after Brimbank council knocked it back.
The proposed facility was to be opened at 1-5 Profita Avenue, Profita Lodge — the same site of a previous SRS facility, SydenhamGracewhichwasoperatedbydifferent owners Grace Disability Services (GDS). Brimbank council city futures director Leanne Deans said the planning permit was declined following a considered as-
sessment of the application.
“There were 67 objections received, and it was determined that the proposal would introduce social and amenity concerns to the neighbourhood due to the number of residents proposed to be housed at the address,” she said.
Sydenham resident Brendan Maughan saidheis“reallypleasedthatcouncildidn’t just rubber stamp it” and was concerned a new facility would bring anti-social residents into the area.
TheconcernwassharedbyotherSydenham locals who allege residents from the previous Sydenham Grace facility wan-
dered the streets and committed anti-social acts within close proximity of a childcare centre.
Sydenham Grace was closed in 2022 after a state government investigation discovered GDS had failed to meet regulations to protect the health and wellbeing of its residents, resulting in the cancellation of Sydenham Grace’s registration.
In a statement to StarWeekly, Peyton Waite PL Town Planners director Martyn Thompson said it is disappointing to see that a scare campaign was able to be successfully run that resulted in misinforming the community about what is actually pro-
Model train club is on the right track
It’s full steam ahead for the Sunshine Railway Model Club as it gears up to host its annual model train show over the first weekend of August.
Sunshine Railway Model Club vice president Joe Saliba said there will be a large number of moving train models and displays of many different sizes on show. Mr Saliba, who has been a member of the club since 1996, said he fell in
Have
love with trains at a young age.
“I used to build LEGO trains when I was little and now I’m actually playing with them in real life,” he said.
He enjoys working on the electrical wiring of the train display layouts the most.
“[The wiring] can cause a lot of problems. That’s part of the passion,” he said.
“I just love seeing what I built come
to life, just seeing something that works. It’s like you’re fixing your car and you’re seeing it work.”
The annual model train show will be at Braybrook Secondary College sports stadium from 9.30am- 5pm on August 2 and 9.30am- 4pm on August 3.
“Please come and see, and be part of the fun over here … no question is too silly!” Mr Saliba said.
council’s We Are Brimbank draft plan
Locals can have their say on Brimbank council’s We Are Brimbank draft plan, which outlines council’s direction and priorities in the coming years as well as its long-term aspirations for the community.
The We Are Brimbank plan integrates three different plans — the Community Vision 2050, the Council Plan 2025-2029, and the Health and Wellbeing Plan 20252029. Councils are required to adopt a council plan after each general election, and must develop a Health and Wellbeing
Plan every four years.
The We Are Brimbank draft plan was created after a year-long community consultation period, with over 490 residents contributing feedback.
Brimbank mayor Thuy Dang said community voices have been key in helping council to develop the draft plan.
“It was good to see that we shared collective hopes for a transformed Brimbank that is united, healthy and full of opportunities,” she said.
“Through ongoing community engage-
posed.
“Our clients have bought these premises with the intention of bringing appropriate supported care back to the community,” he said.
“Obviously, we are disappointed with the decision and the inability to discuss the application with the local community, which we thought was highly likely in light of the previous owner or occupiers misuse of the premises a few years ago.
“It is highly likely to proceed to VCAT now, where a real discussion and consideration of the issues can be made and we welcome the community to be part of that.”
Consultation concerns
Community stakeholders of the proposed Western Renewables Link (WRL) say they are “disappointed” with the project’s consultation and feel overwhelmed with reviewing its recently publicised environmental effects statement (EES).
As reported by Star Weekly, AusNet is proposing to build a 190-kilometre electricity transmission linethatwillcarryrenewableenergyfrom Bulgana in western Victoria to Sydenham in Melbourne’s north-west.
The EES for the proposed project was made public and was opened to submissions for a period of 40 business days from Monday, June 30.
Plumpton landholder and Western Victorian Community Alliance Melton representative Barbara Ford said the EES is almost 10,000 pages long and is “a dense collection of technical, regulatory, and environmental material”.
“And yet, the public has been given just 40 days to read, understand, and respond to it. AusNet has taken five years to collate all the information employing people full-time,” Ms Ford said.
Melton Football Netball Club president Matt Kerr said he has struggled to find time to sit down and read the document while trying to run a business and fulfil his role with the club.
“As a club, we’re very disappointed with the consultation process.”
Melton Airfield head of operations Evan Reeve said the airfield is at risk of closing down its services as the towers would be within 500 metres of the airfield.
“It can’t operate given the fact that we operate to a safety management system. It doesn’t fit … the risks can’t be mitigated,” Mr Reeve said.
An AusNet spokesperson said the organisation understands that hosting infrastructure of this scale can be challenging for communities and welcomes the views of the community.
The spokesperson said anyone can make a submission on the EES which will then be considered by an independent planning panel run by Planning Panels Victoria.
ment,innovation,andsustainablegrowth, we are shaping a city where everyone can thrive, today and for generations to come.”
Input provided during the community feedback period will inform the final We Are Brimbank plan, which will be presented to council for adoption in the October council meeting.
To read the draft ‘We Are Brimbank’ and provide comment, visit yoursay.brimbank.vic.gov.au
Consultation is open from July 17 to August 14.
“The minister for planning has specified a 40 business day exhibition period for the WRL EES. This is longer than the usual 30 business day timeframe outlined in the ministerial guidelines. The extended period reflects both the scale of the project and the high level of public interest,” the spokesperson said.
There will be information sessions for the EES at MacPherson Park in Harkness on July 29, from 4-8pm, and at Darley Park Community and Sports Centre on August 1, from 4-8pm.
Sunshine Model Railway Club vice president Joe Saliba. (Damjan Janevski). 491328_01
MY PLACE
Jodie Barrett is the community engagement officer at the Braybrook and Maidstone Neighbourhood House and she also works with Angliss Neighbourhood House. She spoke to Sam Porter about her work and what she loves about her community.
What’s your connection to the western suburbs?
I’ve lived in the Maribyrnong area for over 12years,andduringthattime,I’vecometo deeply appreciate the strength, diversity, and resilience of this community.
Whatdoyoulikeaboutthearea?
I love the diversity, the incredible range of restaurants offering cuisines from all over the world, and the strong sense of community that brings people together. Everything’s within walking distance, and there’s always something happening, markets, festivals, workshops, or community events. I also really appreciate the local art and culture throughout the area whether it’s vibrant murals, community art projects, or exhibitions at Footscray Community Arts.
What, if anything, would you change aboutthearea?
More public alcohol and other drug (AOD) and mental health rehabilitation centres.
Where is your favourite local place to spendtime?
I love spending time along the Maribyrnong River’s many trails whether it’s jumping over the rocks at Solomon’s Ford, bushwalking from Footscray all the way up to Brimbank Park, or just soaking in the natural beauty. I also enjoy our vibrant local markets and the wide range of diverse restaurants. And of course, our yearly events like the Holi Festival, Lunar
which I think is pretty cool!
Whatdoyouloveaboutyourwork?
welcomed, supported, and surrounded by other local families left a lasting impression on me. It showed me the vital role community spaces. These are places where everyone is welcome, where people ofallages,backgrounds,andabilitiescome togethertolearn,grow,andfeelsupported. I’m passionate about building community connections, especially supporting those who may be feeling isolated or disconnected. Whether it’s helping someone find a local program that fits their interests, linking them with supportservices,orsimplybeingafriendly facetheycancounton,Iloveseeingpeople grow in confidence and feel a true sense of belonging.
Our Neighbourhood house meets people where they’re at, and I love being part of a spacethatlistensdeeplyandrespondswith care.Everydaybringsvariety,purpose,and the chance to make a real impact whether it’s co-designing programs, supporting volunteers, or building partnerships that make our community stronger. It’s grassroots work with heart, and that’s where I thrive.
What’s something people would be surprisedtoknowaboutyou?
I’m obsessed with genealogy. Recently, I discovered that my family tree connects to the Plantagenets on multiple branches,
It’sallaboutgenuineconnection,inclusion, and community-led change. When my son was born, I found myself attending playgroups at two Neighbourhood Houses. That early experience of connection being
We currently offer a Monday playgroup, a community garden, a bread and food relief program, low-cost mosaic classes, a walking group, and arts and crafts activities, spiritual awareness workshops andrecyclingprograms.Ourartsandcrafts activities are subject to grant funding. If you’re interested in getting involved or supporting us, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’d love to hear from you.
Melton Business Excellence Awards finalists announced
The finalists for the 2025 City of Melton Business Excellence Awards have been announced, following a record-breaking number of applications.
With applications from a diverse range of industries, 28 finalists have been selected from more than 100 applicants to be considered for the top honour in nine award categories.
The categories are Emerging Leadership, Disability Inclusion, Health, Wellness and Care, Industry and Trade Services, Professional Services, Retail Services, Sustainability Excellence, Visitation and Hospitality and Workplace Engagement.
In its 18th year, the Melton Business Excellence Awards aim to recognise and reward the fantastic contributions local businesses make to the diverse municipality of Melton.
MeltonmayorSteveAbboushisaiditwas fantastic to see so many local businesses thriving, as evidenced in this year’s record-breaking number of applications for the awards.
“The diverse range of businesses in the [Melton municipality] are the lifeblood of our community and council is proud to showcase the amazing things they are doing through these awards,” Cr Abboushi said.
“I would like to thank every business thattookthetimetoapply.Thejudgeswere impressed with the high calibre of all the submissions,” he said.
“Congratulations to all of the finalists and we look forward to celebrating your success at the awards evening.”
The winners will be announced, including Mayoral Achievement Award and Business of the Year, at the Melton Business Excellence awards evening at West Waters Entertainment Complex on Wednesday, September 10.
Melton
Festival, and Yarraville Festival. There are just so many great things to choose from.
Jodie Barrett. (Damjan Janevski) 491302_02
Keilor Park’s new innings
Local cricket lovers should get ready to pad up and hit one for six at a new state-of-the-art cricket training facility in Keilor Park, which was recently built as part of a major sports facility upgrade.
The $335,000 refurbishments, funded by Brimbank council, saw the old cricket nets upgraded into a fully enclosed and carpetedthree-lanecrickettrainingfacility that now meets Cricket Australia facility guidelines.
The nets, open to all members of the community, will also benefit players at the Keilor Park Cricket Club (KPCC) — the primary club which will use the facilities.
KPCC president David Tardio said reactions from current and past members had been “really positive.”
“Itwasreallyniceforfacesoldandnewto
the club to see the nets,” he said.
“I’ve been there for 20 years and always seen the same nets, so to see that [upgrade] was very exciting.”
The new enclosed nets also include space for bowler runups which Mr Tardio said makes it safer for players.
BrimbankmayorThuyDangsaid“council is thrilled to install the Keilor Park cricket nets for community use at Keilor Park.”
“Communitysporting facilitieslike these make sure that everyone in Brimbank can have the opportunity to get out and play sport. Playing sport is good physically and mentally, and there is a real sense of belonging when you’re a member of a team or a club,” mayor Dang said.
ThenewnetscanbeaccessedviaStadium Drive.
Briefs
Keilor Park shooting
Police are investigating a firearms incident in Keilor Park on July 21. It is understood an unknown offender in a vehicle fired a shot towards a business in the Aerocorp Business Park on Thomsons Road about 12.22pm. Police said no one inside the business was injured and the offenders fled the scene. Anyone who witnessed the incident, has footage or any other information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www. crimestoppers.vic.com.au
Armed robbery charges Police have charged four people following an alleged series of armed robberies in Melbourne’s west. It is alleged the group were involved in four robberies at bottle shops and service stations in Tottenham, Derrimut and Tarneit on July 22. It’s alleged during each of the incidents, the group presented at least one edged weapon and made demands for cash, cigarettes and stole alcohol, before fleeing in an alleged stolen Audi sedan. A 20-year-old Glenroy man, a 19-year-old Wallan man, an 18-year-old Werribee man and 17-year-old boy from the Merri-bek area were charged with armed robbery, attempted armed robbery and driving offences.
FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au
Brimbank & North West Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly
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Saturday 9 August, 2025 from 11am to 1pm Spaces are limited – RSVP now! Call or Text Ida on 0402 225 140 or use the QR code to reserve a spot.
Keilor Park Sports Club president David Baldwin, player Zachary, 17, and Brimbank mayor Thuy Dang. (Damjan Janevski) 489674_03
Dark roads are ‘dangerous’
Brimbank residents have expressed concerns about streetlights on main roads not working for extended periods of time.
In a Facebook post, locals highlighted specific problem areas as being Keilor Park Drive and the Ring Road, and the King’s Road exit onto the Calder Freeway, saying some lights have not been fixed for years.
Local Josie Inserra said the darkness is a threat to safety.
“They need to have the lights on at King’s Road because if you’re on the freeway you can’t see the exit. I think it’s dangerous,” she said.
“Especially now that Calder Park Drive
exit is closed while they fix the rail overpass, more people are using this exit. It’s just so hard to see the exit.”
In reference to streetlights on Keilor Park Drive and the Ring Road, another commenter wrote, “they have been out for a very long time and no one knows the exact reason.”
Other locals speculated online that the reasons behind the streetlight outages may be due to copper theft.
When Star Weekly contacted the Department of Transport and Planning for comment a spokesperson said, “We thank the local community for their patience while we continue to plan for
works to restore the affected street lights.”
“Theft and vandalism to transport infrastructure puts lives at risk and disables critical road infrastructure. Anyone who witnesses any theft or vandalism on Victoria’s transport network is urged to contact Victoria Police immediately.“
Victoria Police said it was not aware of recent incidents of copper theft in the Brimbank area that may have caused power outages.
According to Energy Safe Victoria, in 2024 more than 400 incidents of copper theft were reported across the state.
Energy Safe Victoria expects the figure to rise in 2025.
Grants help table tennis club serve new uniforms
A Sunshine table tennis association is one of the lucky recipients of a new round of sports club grants.
Sunshine and District Table Tennis Association (SDTTA) received $1000 as part of the state government’s sporting clubs grants program, which provides funding for equipment and uniforms to local clubs.
SDTTA treasurer Alan Trang said the association was thrilled with the news.
“This is a big help financially for us… we’re volunteers and it’s a community club. We don’t generally generate any in-
come and if we do we try to put it all back to the club,” he said.
The club put the funding towards creating new uniforms for members.
The uniforms — dark blue polo shirts with the SDTTA logo — were designed by the club president Robert Katsipis who applied for the grant.
Mr Trang said the new uniforms helped to unite members, boost morale and create brand recognition.
“Our players go out to compete in state wide tournaments and we can better represent our club when we have our new
jerseys,” he said.
“It’s good to have that recognition.”
SDTTA was one of eight clubs in Brimbank to receive a grant in the most recent round.
The program, backed by the regional community sport development fund, saw more than $1 million in funding granted to 827 local sporting clubs across Victoria.
Acting Community Sport Minister Gayle Tierney said they’re getting behind local sports clubs and making sure they have the facilities and equipment they need to support their local communities.
An Energy Safe Victoria spokesperson said the regulator was working with utility representatives, Victoria Police, and other relevant agencies “to understand the prevalence and impact of copper theft in Victoria, and to identify actions to reduce these incidents.”
“Energy Safe Victoria takes the significant and growing concern of copper theft very seriously,” the spokesperson said.
“Not only is copper theft illegal, but it is extremely dangerous. By exposing live wires and damaging electrical safety systems, thieves put themselves, the public and electrical workers at a significant safety risk.”
Social housing for St Albans
Ninety new social homes are set to be built in St Albans as part of a state government plan to deliver over 1000 new social homes across the state.
The social housing growth fund will see the state government work with community housing providers to increase the number of homes available for Victorians on the social housing register – including people escaping family violence, people sleeping rough, and First Nations Victorians.
The St Albans development, managed by Evolve Housing, will provide one and two-bedroom homes within close proximity of Keilor Plains Station as well as local primary and secondary schools.
The St Albans development is part of a wider $369 million plan which will see the state government fund not-for-profit community housing organisations to build and operate social housing for 30 years.
Housing Minister Harriet Shing said the partnership with housing providers will result in “more modern, energy efficient and accessible homes for Victorians on the social housing waitlist”. .
The state government said these energy efficient homes would help renters to save on power bills, and to keep warm in winter and cool in summer. The investment is also expected to support more than 5400 jobs across the state by supporting suppliers and construction workers.
Sunshine and District Table Tennis Association members George Christou, M Ahnaf Shadid, Aiden Deng, Roy Zhao, Emrys Wu and Jaywen Crossingham. (Alan Trang)
Housing fraud conviction for Remedy Housing officials
Two St Albans residents — along with another Melbourne man — have been convicted of dishonesty offences for their roleinpromoting‘interest-freemortgages’ offered by the company Remedy Housing between 2019 and 2021.
The convictions come after a jury found the three Remedy Housing officials guilty after a four-week trial in the County Court of Victoria.
Brent Lindsay Smith and Fue Heidi Mano — both from St Albans — and Mahmoud Khodr dishonestly represented that Remedy Housing would provide consumers with an ‘interest-free mortgage’ and title to a home within 12
months, upon payment of a deposit of at least $10,000.
They also dishonestly represented that if Remedy Housing could not provide an ’interest-free mortgage to the consumer within that period then the deposit would be refunded in full.
In addition, Smith, Mano and Khodr misled consumers into believing the company was financed by overseas investors,includingfinancingfromformer Samoan international rugby union player Trevor Leota.
Leota was not charged in relation to this offending.
Remedy Housing was operated by Smith
and Khodr as director and secretary respectively.
Mano was an officer of the company who was involved, together with Leota, in promoting the business to consumers, primarily in the Pacific Islander communities in Australia and New Zealand.
Remedy Housing had no investors or funders, never provided any mortgages, and the funds it acquired from customers’ depositswereusedtooperateandpromote theschemeandtransferredtothepersonal accounts of Smith and Khodr.
The matter was prosecuted by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions
Preserving history
By Sam Porter
Keilor Historical Society (KHS) unveiled a newinformativepanelaspartoftheKeilor Heritage Trail on July 18, with relatives of the Milburn family in attendance at the ceremony.
The new panel highlights the history of theHeritageGrangeFarmandHomestead which was built by John Milburn in the late 19th century.
KHS vice president Susan Jennison said it was an incredible event.
“We were fortunate that the weather was so lovely .. .we also had a fair representation from the Milburn family. It was lovely to have the family members there,” said Ms Jennison.
Dorothy Milburn, the wife of the late John Milburn, was one of the relatives
who participated in the unveiling.
“We put a ribbon around the panel and Dorothy was taken out by her children to cut the ribbon, ” said Ms Jennison.
One of John’s brothers, David Milburn, was also at the ceremony.
According to the Victorian Heritage Database, the site is significant due to its links to John’s father, also named David Milburn, who was an early horticulturalist, and the first developer of irrigation in Victoria.
“[David Milburn] developed an irrigation method by using a hand pump todrawwaterfromwhatisknowntodayas the Maribyrnong river,” said Ms Jennison.
He settled in Keilor in 1857 and the region’smarketgardeningtraditionbegan soon after his arrival.
“Hewasaskilledgardener—nicknamed
Davey the basketman because he sold fruit, vegetables and butter to those going to the goldfields,” Ms Jennison said.
Thefarmandhomesteadisanimportant archaeological site as it may also uncover information as to how the floodplain landscape in Keilor was developed into orchards and gardens.
“It’s extremely significant agricultural history. For me it was the commitment to do the panels so we get that history out in writing,” said Ms Jennison.
“It’sforthepeopleofthenextgenerations so they know about these things.”
The new informative panel, which was funded by Brimbank council, can be visited at the Heritage Grange Farm at 127 Milburn Road in Keilor — as part of a series of panels along the Keilor Heritage Trail.
following an investigation and referral by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC).
ASIC chair Joe Longo, said “the jury’s decision in this case demonstrates the community’s concern with deception of this scale.”
“This prosecution demonstrates ASIC’s commitment to ensuring dishonesty in the credit and financial services industry is penalised,” he said.
Asentencinghearinghasbeenscheduled for the trio in September this year. Theyeachfaceamaximumpenaltyofup to 15 years’ imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $765,000.
Have your say on council assets
Residents are invited to provide feedback on a draft plan to manage council assets.
The plan will help guide Brimbank council on how to sustainably manage, renew, build or upgrade important public assets.
These public assets include parks and playgrounds, footpaths and bike paths, roads and bridges, stormwater drains, community centres, sports pavilions, libraries and more.
Brimbank mayor Cr Thuy Dang saidthedraftplan“ispartofcouncil’s effort to create and maintain better assets for our municipality.”
“The draft Brimbank Asset Plan is designed to ensure council assets aresustainablymanagedandremain well-maintained,secure,andvisually appealing over the next decade and beyond,” Cr Dang said.
Council said it previously engaged with community members from a wide range of backgrounds — as well as a diverse 39-person Brimbank Community Voice panel — to help shape the draft 10-year asset plan.
Key takeaways from the panel discussion included a push for more inclusive green spaces and a preference for upgrading existing assets before building new ones, among other points.
“We’d love to hear your thoughts on what matters most when you think about community places and spaces,” said Cr Dang.
Council manages over $2.8 billion of public assets that are already in service. Consultation is open until August 14, 2025.
Left: Dorothy Milburn cuts the ribbon at an unveiling of the new informative panel at Keilor Heritage Grange Farm and Homestead.
Right: A new informative panel was unveiled at Keilor Heritage Grange Farm and Homestead this month. (Pictures: Susan Jennison)
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Honouring the unconventional leaders behind GVL
Principal’s Week is an opportunity to recognise educational leadership across the country and at Global Village Learning (GVL), we do things a little differently.
At GVL, you won’t find bells ringing, principals behind desks, or classrooms in the traditional sense. Instead, you’ll meet Peter and Pip, two visionary leaders who have co-created an environment where young people are empowered to lead their learning, explore their passions, and contribute meaningfully to their community.
Peter and Pip don’t see themselves as traditional principals — they are custodians of a learner-led, guide-supported, future-focused learning village. Rather than managing from above, they walk alongside learners and guides, helping to shape a community that nurtures creativity, connection, and real-world impact.
Since its founding, GVL has grown into a vibrant educational community with campuses in New Gisborne and soon, at the Old Castlemaine Gaol. The learning model is Montessori-inspired and centred around Developmental Learning Hubs, replacing rigid year levels with natural stages of growth: Foundations & Play (ages 4–8), Exploration & Discovery (7–12), Entrepreneurship & Social Impact (11–16), and Pathways & Futures (15–20).
UnderPipandPeter’sleadership,GVLhas become a place where young people of all abilities—many of them neurodivergent— can thrive. The approach is deeply personalised, with a focus on mastery, agency, and meaningful community contribution. From building social enterprisestoexploringsustainability,over 200 learners are engaged in EDventurous
Projects that matter.
Ratherthanstrivingtomeetconventional standards, Pip and Peter are reimagining what education can be—and their impact is already being felt. Families, educators,
and communities across the region are watching closely as GVL becomes a model for learner-led education in Australia.
This Principal’s Week, we celebrate two individuals who remind us that leadership
doesn’talwayswearasuitorsitinanoffice. Sometimes, it looks like shared meals, muddy boots, thoughtful conversations, and a deep belief in the capacity of young people to change the world.
Pip Cleaves and Peter Hutton.
Cultural centre doors open
The Wyndham Cultural Centre is back in action and the community is invited to see someofthebestentertainmentonoffer.
The refreshed space features a new modern bar, foyer, upgrades to seating and improvements to the overall theatre experience including new audio visual equipment.
The centre offers a varied program of music,contemporaryvisualart,exceptional theatre,andanunforgettableline-upoflive performancesfortheremainderof2025.
A new entry to the Werribee Library from Wedge Street has been added to the centre and visitors can ponder the
dedicated collections space for the visual artcollection.
ThepowerofideaswillenchantWerribee for three hours on Friday, August 7 when the The Green Room Project Showcase is putonfulldisplay.
The high energy new initiative, in partnership with Melbourne Writers’ Theatre, features emerging writers who have developed original ten-minute plays that explore powerful ideas and unique voices.
Plenty is coming up for those in need of a good laugh, and on Saturday, August 23 that will be in the form of Brown
Women Comedy. The laugh out loud show will feature award winning besharam (shameless) line-up of Indian and South Asian comedians living in Australia. No topicwillbeofflimitsforthesewittyladies–and audiences are being warned—these womendon’tholdback!
Traditional family expectations will be turned on their head and everyone will be able to relate to the wonderful and whacky waysfamiliesoperate.
To see what is on at the Wyndham Cultural Centre , check the schedule at https://www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/venues/ wyndham-cultural-centre
Poetry through painting on show in Ballan
An outdoor exhibition in Ballan will present “poetry through images,” with colourful artworks inspired by daily observations.
Presented at Moorabool’s outdoor galleryspaceMAPPUpinLightsinBallan, ‘The Poetry of Life’ by artist Min Chiang will present works that depict interactions between people, animals, nature, and evenwithoneself.
Chiang said the exhibition was inspired byherdailyobservations.
“Iwantedtoturnordinarymomentsinto poetic visual stories … these scenes may look simple, but they hold deep emotional connections,”Chiangsaid.
“I use bold blocks of colour to create atmosphere, and layered lines to express emotions and the feeling of being intertwined – just like how we naturally show different emotions when we’re with differentpeople.
“For me, it’s like writing poetry through images. Each of us is creating our own life poem through relationships with others andwithnature.”
Chiang enjoys exploring a wide range of materials and techniques and has worked with oil, watercolour, acrylic, ink, cotton, linen, wood, stone, paper, ceramics, printmaking,andmore.
“Each material brings its own energy, andIlovediscoveringhowdifferentforms can shape the way an idea is expressed,” Chiangsaid.
“For me, the most important part of making art is keeping an open mind. The medium is simply a tool – what matters is using it to communicate something authentic.
“What I enjoy most about art is the freedomitgivesme.SinceEnglishisn’tmy first language, expressing complex ideas throughwordscansometimesbelimiting. But with art, I can connect with people acrosslanguagesandcultures.”
ToChiangartisanaturalwaytorespond tolifeandexpressthoughtsandemotions.
“When I started this series, I really wanted to explore the small but meaningful interactions we have with the worldaroundus.”
Chiang’s works will be exhibited at MAPP Up in Lights Ballan at AA McLean Reserve,FiskenStreet,Ballan,fromJuly31 untilAugust31.
Monthly music and puppet nights in Footscray
Snuff Puppets are opening a new music and arts bar, Snuff Salooon, at the historic FootscrayDrillHall.
The first Snuff Salooon headlines electro-dub band High Pass Filter, known for their unconventional instruments, including looped tape machines, conch shells, telephone receivers, air tubes, and toys.
Drummer, composer, and producer Maria Moles will perform a solo improvisationondrumkit.
Six Snuff Puppets puppeteers, with over 100 years combined performance experience, will create unique acts on stageandinthecrowd.
Drag artist Jetstir showcases their character, Rodney Rattus, connoisseur of
chaos,businessratwithaloveforredwine. GuestartistSausageWomanwillperforma human-sizedMotherpuppet.
Live drawing by Chris Ferric will be projectedabovethedancefloor.
Future monthly Snuff Salooons will present different themes, including The Body, End of the World, Circus, and culminating in a wild Snuff Party in December.
Nick Wilson, Snuff Puppets co-artistic director, said “We can’t wait to open our salooon and share our love of music and artwithhundredsofpeople”
TheinauguralSnuffSalooonwillbeheld at 7pm on Saturday August 2 at Footscray Drill Hall, 395 Barkly Street, Footscray. Tickets:$20-$35-snuffpuppets.com
Telling First Nations’ stories
An exhibition highlighting the often forgotten stories and histories of First Nations people in Melbourne’s west is currently showing as part of a collaboration with Melbourne’s LivingMuseumoftheWest(MLMW) andCreativeBrimbank.
MLMW Aboriginal cultural officer, and Aboriginal cultural leader and storyteller Uncle Larry Walsh wrote the story for ‘Still Here — a brief history of Aboriginal people in Melbourne’swest,’whichistoldfrom aKoorieperspective.
Uncle Larry also researched, directed the exhibition’s design, and provided the majority of the content forthepanels.
He worked closely with MLMW committee member and artist Dr Kerrie Poliness over two years to create the exhibition, which was first exhibitedin1996.
Dr Poliness said the exhibition is about giving voice to First Nations people’s stories and histories that mightusuallybeleftout.
“At that point in time [in 1996], there was a perception that there were no Aboriginal people living in Melbourne’s west. The history was invisible. So the exhibition title is addressingthatperception,”shesaid.
Dr Poliness organised the overall design and production of the exhibition as well as the catalogue andpresentation.
“[Back then] there was no kind of graphic design, desktop publishing, photoshop…The photographs are physical photographs that were printed and glued to the panels… it was really important to include the [copied] physical documents,” said DrPoliness.
The exhibition is made up of 14 panels, which tell stories covering a range of subjects through displays of historical document copies and photographs.
“[The panels] could fit in the back of the car and be taken to different events, set up outside, set up anywhere,”saidDrPoliness.
“It was the first exhibition in Australia to use the word ‘invasion’ andcallitaninvasion.
“Itwasanamazingexperience,and anenormouslearningcurveformeas a non-indigenous person to find out stories about what had happened to people,“saidDrPoliness.
‘Still Here — a brief history of Aboriginal people in Melbourne’s west’ is a free exhibition showing at theBoweryTheatreinStAlbansuntil Saturday,August16.
Artist Min Chiang will present ‘The Poetry of Life’ at MAPP Up in Lights Ballan from July 31 to August 31. (Supplied).
Snuff Puppets lyrebird. (Cameron Grant)
Wyndham Cultural Centre Arts Assist chair Jan Goates. (Damjan Janevski). 489639_04
Romantic realisation of dream
A lifelong dream to visit Egypt and the Valley of the Kings is now a reality for Carl Green and wife Judy who will embark on a Pharaohs and Pyramids adventure starting in Cairo in March 2026.
Their twelve-day round trip organised by Tamara Tavasci from Helloworld Travel Gympie, is everything they hoped for includingathree-dayextensioninCairoto see more of the city before they join their cruise.
They will join the state-of-the-art brand new Viking Thoth specifically built to cruise the Nile after exploring Egypt’s exhilarating capital on 28 March.
The boat designed in the clean, elegant Scandinavian aesthetic Viking is known for,offerstheultimateincomfortwithonly 82 guests, 48 crew, 236 feet in length and only built in 2025.
“I don’t know why we have never got there as it’s a place I’ve always wanted to see,especiallythepyramidsandpharaohs, the Sphinx, Giza and the Nile,” Carl said.
“I have wanted to do the Nile since I was a kid, and we felt the easiest way was to go on a cruise.”
“I am actually really excited because we aregoingtolunchatthesameplaceAgatha Christie wrote Murder on the Nile.” Their itinerary will give the Greens and another couple they are travelling with, the chance to witness the majestic pyramids from a camel, explore the Temple of Karnak’s 136 soaring pillars, visit Queen Nefertari’s tomb in the Valley of the Queens, skim the waters of the Nile by traditional felucca, enjoy the fragrances of Aswan’s spice market.
On board is Viking’s Egyptologists who offersgueststheirexpertknowledgeonthe history of this fascinating country.
According to Viking, it has been said of Egypt’s exhilarating capital, “He who has not seen Cairo has not seen the world.”
Thebrochuresays“Certainly,theheartof thenationbeatswithanunbridledpassion inthiscitymadeprosperousovermillennia as a stopover for Sahara caravans on trade routestoByzantium.Amidthestimulating strum, the insistent beauty of everyday life reigns here, with the serene Nile sliding throughlikeanentrancingserpent.Cairo’s very age mesmerizes; its monuments have stood here for more than 5,000 years.”
“Tamara recommended this trip as it basically did everything we wanted it to do,” Carl said
Tamara said she has booked a lot of
Viking cruises for people before, and she was confident recommending this particular cruise and company to Carl and Judy.
Shesaidthefeedbackfromherclientshas always been positive with most booking
further trips with Viking. She believes it is the standard of ship and the destinations that bring travelers back for more.
Carl and Judy are no strangers to international travel taking many overseas trips since their marriage in 1989 but they
have only been on one three-night cruise out of Brisbane before.
Carl said these days travel is so much moreenjoyableashehashandedthereigns of their company over to son Jack.
Carl and Judy own Green RV with yards in Forest Glen on the Sunshine Coast, Gympie,Toowoomba.Brisbane,Newcastle (Heatherbrae). They started the business in 1997 in Gympie because there was a gap Inthemarketandnowhaveabout125staff.
“Now that Jack’s taken over, I can relax straight away instead of always trying to get Wi-Fi reception and taking phone calls,” Carl said.
His packing tips are simple too - “get the wife to do it”.
Carl and Judy’s Egyption adventure is called Pharaohs and Pyramids by Viking and is a twelve-day cruise starting at Cairo and stopping at Luxor, Qena, Esna, Aswan, KomOmbo,Edfu,backtoLuxorandCairo.
Find out more about this cruise and other destinations at www.viking.com or phone 138 747.
LEE MCCARTHY
Travellers to Egypt become immersed in the past with a visit to three of the most iconic. landmarks of ancient Egypt.
Enjoy a fascinating time exploring Egypt’s capital city and learning about the region’s vast history.
Explore Cairo with a three day extension prior to joining your cruise.
Gain a deeper understanding of Ancient Egypt’s history at The Grand Egyptian Museum.
Carl and Judy Green are making a dream come true with a twelve-day cruise on the Nile with Viking.
The Viking Pharaohs and Pyramids cruise of Egypt is a once in a lifetime opportunity for Gympie couple Carl and Judy Green.
SAVE UP TO $2,400 PER COUPLE^
Your Holiday Includes Cruises
7 night all-inclusive river cruise on board Mekong Navigator
Visiting: Siem Reap, Kampong Cham, Opopel Village - Wat Rokakong, Phnom Penh (overnight in port), Long Khánh Island - Mỹ An Hưng A, Sa Đéc - Cái Bè, Mỹ Tho (overnight in port)
1 night full-board luxury cruise on board the Indochine Junk Boat visiting Lan Ha Bay, Hạ Long Bay Hotel Stays
Four-star hotel stays in Siem Reap, Ho Chi Minh City, Hội An, and Hanoi Five-star hotel stay in
All hotel stays include breakfast
Escorted Tours
Angkor Archaeological Park
Củ Chi Tunnels
Ho Chi Minh City tour
Hanoi city tour featuring Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Hội An city tour with Bánh xèo cooking demonstration and tasting
Huế city tour
All Flights, Taxes & Transfers
Overnight flight
JOURNEY FURTHER
GREENLAND, ICELAND, NORWAY & BEYOND
Bergen to New York City or vice versa
29 DAYS | 5 COUNTRIES 17 GUIDED TOURS SET SAIL: JUN-AUG 2026; JUN-AUG 2027
From $26,695pp in Veranda Stateroom
From $32,995pp in Penthouse Veranda
ICONS OF THE VIKING AGE
Bergen to Copenhagen
22 DAYS | 8 COUNTRIES | 17 GUIDED TOURS
SET SAIL: MAY-SEP 2027
From $21,295pp in Veranda Stateroom
From $26,395pp in Penthouse Veranda
Uncover vibrant Oslo and its fascinating history, viewing iconic sights such as Akershus Fortress and the Royal Palace, and learn about Norway’s rich maritime heritage. Then embark on arguably one of the world’s most scenic train rides, the Bergen Railway, over Europe’s highest mountain plateau.
VIKING HOMELANDS
Bergen to Stockholm or vice versa
15 DAYS | 6 COUNTRIES 11 GUIDED TOURS SET SAIL: APR-AUG 2026; MAY-AUG 2027
From $13,395pp in Veranda Stateroom
From 15,895pp in Penthouse Veranda
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Western Athletics function
Western Athletics is celebrating 30 years since the amalgamation of Werribee, Footscray and Sunshine athletic clubs. A function will be held on 18 October at the Yarraville Club. To express your interest or send updated contact details please contact us.
info@westernathletics.com.au.
Festa Santa Marija
Celebrate Festa Santa Marija on August 17 at St Peter Chanel. A service accompanied by The Philippine Eucharistic Choir followed by the traditional procession parade of Santa Marija will take place and accompanied by two local Maltese groups. Traditional Maltese food and drinks will be available for sale. At 00 Ballarat Road, Deer Park, from 2-10pm.
www.facebook.com/ SantaMarijaAustralia/
Al-Anon Family Groups
Al-Anon Family Groups is offering help and hope to anyone living in an unhappy home because a loved one drinks too much. There are no contracts to sign, just a voluntary donation to cover room rental. Confidentiality is protected. Confidential meetings held at the Delahay Community Centre, 70 Copperfield Drive every Wednesday, from 1-2.30pm. New members welcome. No appointment necessary.
Helpline, 1300 252 666
Deer Park Lions Club
Deer Park Lions Club is looking for new members. It holds dinner meetings on
REAL ESTATE
the first Wednesday of every month at the Deer Park Senior Citizens Club, 119 Station Road, Deer Park. Michael, 0417 307 572
Blue Light Disco
Calling all superheroes and masked crusaders of Brimbank. Come and dance with us at our upcoming Blue Light Disco. Prizes for best costume, best dancer and more. Bring your friends and make some
new ones on the dancefloor. This event is for primary school-aged children in grades 3-6. Cost: $10. At St Albans Community Centre, 33 Princess Street, St Albans, on August 1, from 6-8pm. Bookings essential.
thebrimbankmeltonbluelight@gmail.com
Prostate cancer awareness
Visit Westvale Community Centre on August 21 for a prostate cancer awareness presentation, including a Q&A session.
This informative session will cover key topics such as an introduction to the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA), understanding the prostate and prostate cancer, risk factors, symptoms, testing methods, treatment options, and the support services available through PCFA. From noon-1pm, at 45 Kings Road, Kings Park. Registration required. www.trybooking.com/events/ landing/1427623
Westside wanderers
Take mouth-watering walking food tour in the heart of Sunshine. This 2.5-hour guided experience blends food, culture, and local storytelling across a compact 1km, fully accessible route – perfect for both curious locals and adventurous food lovers. Includes three courses across three beloved local eateries, two immersive visits to local grocery stores, live entertainment, tastings, giveaways, and a special Sunshine keepsake. On August 9, noon-2.30pm. Cost: $99 Bookings required.
https://events.brimbank.vic.gov.au/ westside-wanders-sunshine-2025/ Deer Park Probus Club
The Deer Park Probus Club meets at the Deer Park Club, 780 Ballarat Road, Deer Park on the second Wednesday of the month from February to December. Meet at 10am followed by lunch available from 12pm. The club offers bus trips, lunches, morning melodies etc. New members welcome.
Peter, 0412 604 713 or Pat, 0413 126 714
Quality, comfort and style in a sought-after pocket
Set in a peaceful court surrounded by quality homes, within walking distance tothepopularSpavinLakeReserve,isthis impressive home at 15 Twin Creek Court, Sunbury.
From the moment you step through the white entry door with beautiful lead-light glass features, this home exudes quality, styleandrelaxedfamilyliving.
This spacious, modern residence boasts four generously sized bedrooms, two bathrooms, two living areas and a dedicated study (with built-in robes), a perfect work-from-home space or 5th bedroom.
Crafted for optimal living, the open plan kitchen/meals/living area with expansive island bench, flows effortlessly to the outdoor alfresco space with timber decking, a cosy wood heater and drop-down blinds for the winter evenings, perfectforentertainingorunwinding.
The theatre room/second living is ideal for spending quality family time together watching your favourite movies whilst summertime invites you to relax and keep coolintheinground,salt-chlorinatedpool.
The spacious master bedroom features a very generous walk-in robe and ensuite with sleek walk-in shower, whilst the remaining bedrooms all include built-in robes.
Additional features:
•Beautiful,polishedtimberfloorboardsin entry
•9’ ceilings and high-quality skirting boards, consistent with the homes’ qualityfinish
•Double-glazed windows and insulated throughout
•Granitebenchtopsandqualityappliances
•Three phase cooling and 6-star ducted heating
•15KWsolarsystem
•Doublegaragewithrearrollerdoor.
This exceptional home truly caters to the needs of the modern, growing family or the executive looking for space with low maintenance exterior. Only 45km to Melbourne’s CBD, 20km to Tullamarine Airport and around 4km to the renowned SalesianCollegeandSunbury’sCBD.
Be sure to schedule a viewing today to experience this remarkable home firsthand.
Contact: Julie Ryan 0438 060 382 at Anthony Stevens Real Esate.
This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Tala Clarete, who spent her 18th birthday hosting a tree planting session. (Damjan Janevski) 491011_01
To
nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.
ACROSS
1 Common carbohydrate (6)
4 One to whom money is owed (8)
9 Andrew Lloyd Webber
musical (5)
10 Water fowl (9)
11 Electronic read (1-4)
12 Yellowish-green colour (4,5)
13 Astonishment (8)
15 Roma is its capital (6)
16 Equestrians (6)
18 Ovine insecticide (5,3)
23 Infectious disease (9)
24 Body organ (5)
26 Comparisons based on similarities (9)
27 Might (5)
28 Hated intensely (8)
29 Varied mixure (6) DOWN
1 Equal; even – (7)
2 Type of acid (5)
3 Savoury biscuit (7)
5 Seldom (6)
6 Dry spell (7)
7 Journeyed (9)
8 Domed building (7)
10 Components of a dollar (5)
14 Superfluous (9)
16 First given name of Ringo Starr (7)
17 Bases (7)
19 Tips (5)
20 Overshadow (7)
21 Depict (7)
22 Separate into parts (6)
25 Sound pronounced with an open vocal tract (5)
What colour is Postman Pat's
Which city had the world's first subway?
By what stage name was actor Joan de Beauvoir de Havilland better known?
4 Which character narrates How I Met Your Mother?
5 As of 2025, how many studio albums has pop singer Lily Allen (pictured) released?
6 Dhaka is the capital of which Asian country?
7 What does a garbologist study?
8 Is an ibex a type of a) goat,
9
SPORTS QUIZ
1. Who did Iga Swiatek defeat 6–0, 6–0 in the 2025 Wimbledon women’s singles final?
2. And what bread-related nickname does this scoreline bear?
3. True or false: Tiger Woods has never competed at the Olympic Games?
4. In which city will the 2026 Tour de France begin?
5. Which prestigious sports award is named after Herbert Henry Messenger?
6. Cross-code athlete Sheridan Gallagher plays in which two Australian sports leagues?
7. Which current AFL coach was named in the 2004 Greek Team of the Century?
Championship was held in which US state?
And which US state has hosted the most PGA Championships, including the first iteration in 1916?
Which team won the 2024 AFLW Grand
How many consecutive VFL grand finals did Hawthorn contest in the 1980s?
Norwegian Olympic bronze medallist Audun Grønvold recently died after being struck by what natural force?
13. In chess, how many types of pieces can be moved diagonally?
14. Which Sauber F1 driver scored a podium finish at the British GP, his first in 239 career races?
15. What score were the West Indies dismissed for in their second innings of the third Test against Australia?
16. And which popular Australian fast bowler took a hat-trick in the process?
17. After his Wimbledon victory, how many grand slam titles has Jannik Sinner now won in total?
18. Courtside is a new retail and recreation business in Melbourne founded by which two current NBA players?
19. Which thoroughbred horseracing and breeding operation sold over $2 million worth of readyto-race horses in July?
20. Actor Adam Driver portrayed which legendary motor racing icon in a 2023 biopic?
21. How many golfing major championships has Scottie Scheffler won?
22. The Australian Opals defeated which nation in the final of the recent FIBA Women’s Asia Cup?
23. What stadium is hosting the 2025 Super Netball Grand Final?
24. What sport does the athlete awarded the largest sporting contract of all time play?
25. The sport of dragon boating originated in which country?
26. In which year will Papua New Guinea join the NRL competition?
27. The British & Irish Lions recently played in which Australian city for the first time since 1888?
30.
not
or false:
to compete at the first modern Olympic Games in 1896?
YOUR
Star Weekly seeks an enthusiastic Full or Part time Sales Executive to work across our print, digital, social and online platforms.
Star Weekly is an independently owned company which prides itself on its long history of community experience but also its investment in the future.
The successful applicant will need to possess good people skills to enable them to meet with local businesses to sell solutions through our advertising platforms to help promote their business.
Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance.
The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme.
Send your application letter and resume to: Advertising Sales Manager, Mandy Clark mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au www.starnewsgroup.com.au
28. Who captained the First Nations and Pasifika XV in their recent match against the British and Irish Lions?
29. Rum’un is the mascot of which future Australian sporting team?
True
women were
allowed
Iga Swiatek
Jaecoo J7 – China’s best yet?
By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring
Another name to grapple with as the surge in Chinese imports gathers strength and they not only come with quantity but also quality.
This time we’re looking at Jaecoo, which joins Omoda and Tiggo as sub-brands within the giant Chery group, the fourth-largest of China’s plethora of manufacturers and, along with SAIC, one of its largest exporters.
Although Chery did make a brief and unsuccessful attempt to enter the Australian market about 10 years ago, it hasonlyjustre-launchedhereandremains largely unknown. Which is a blessing in disguise because these early models were awful and bear no comparison to the quality vehicles that are coming here now.
First out of the blocks for Jaecoo is the J7, a mid-sized five-seat SUV. It shares much of its components and dimensions with its Omoda 5 and Tiggo 4 stablemates, but is aimed at more upmarket buyers.
There are four Jaecoo J7 variants: Core, Track and Ridge. All are powered by a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine. The Summit SHS is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) that combines a 1.5-litre turbo petrol with a 18.3 kWh battery.
Driveaway prices range from $34,990 for theCorethroughto$47,990fortheSummit SHS.
WereviewedtheSummithybridrecently so will concentrate on the three petrol models this time around.
Styling
It’s hard for any vehicle in the highly-competitive and congested small/ midsize SUV market to stand out from the crowd but, in our eyes at least, the J7 just does that.
The front is the standout feature of the J7’s design dominated by what Chery describes as a Waterfall Grille with 20 vertical chrome and piano black bars and the Jaecoo name in the centre.
The grille is flanked by twin stacked LED headlights below slimline LED daytime running lights.
Core and Ridge run on 18-inch machine finished alloy wheels. Ridge steps up to 19-inch multi-spoke alloys.
J7 Ridge adds red brake calipers, panoramic sunroof, privacy glass and puddle lights.
There are five exterior colour options, three with optional carbon black roofs.
Interior
The quality and premier feel of the Jaecoo J7 extends into the cabin.
The synthetic leatherette-trimmed seats are large and supportive. All front occupants get powered seats while the driver in the Ridge adds a memory function, powered lumbar support and seat perforation and ventilation.
Also standard across the range are a premium steering wheel with tilt and telescopic adjustment.
Headandlegroomareaboveaverageand a panoramic sunroof with tilt-and-slide function, really opens up the area, letting in light and, with blind closed, keeping out much of the sun’s heat.
There are plenty of storage spaces with cup holders and phone charger in the centre console, a deep cubby with cooling and a convenient slot for the keyfob. Beneath the floating centre console is a large area to store phones, handbags, wallets, etc out of sight.
Maximum boot capacity in the Core and Track models is 424 litres up to the cargo cover and 584 litres to the roof. With the
rearseatbacksfoldedthatincreasesto1349 litres but down to 340/1265 litres in the Ridge.
Core and Track have a space-saver spare wheel. Ridge gets a full-size spare.
Engines/transmissions
All three petrol Jaecoo J7 models are powered by a fifth-generation 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine, putting out 137kW at 5500 rpm and 275Nm from 2000 to 4000 revs.
Transmission is through a seven-speed dual clutch unit sent to the front wheels in the Core and Track and all four wheels in the Ridge.
Safety
Jaecoo J7 was tested by ANCAP in May 2025 and received the maximum five-star rating.
Standard features include eight airbags, rear parking sensors, reversing camera, forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, various lane keeping alerts and corrections, adaptive cruise control, driver monitoring system, traffic jam assist, integrated cruise assist, blind spot detection, and rear cross traffic alert and braking.
Variants above Core add a driver’s knee airbag, front parking sensors and 360-degree around view monitor. Disappointingly, only Ridge comes with a head-up display.
Infotainment
Unlike most other current vehicles which use a landscape-orientated display screen,Jaecoohasoptedforportraitmode, 13.2 inches in the Core and Track and 14.8-inch in the Ridge. The portrait screen, unlike the swivelling one in BYD, makes a lot of sense because it comes closer to the driver.
Tabletuserswillhavenotroubleadapting to the screen.
There’s also a 10.25-inch digital
instrument cluster in front of the driver. Both screens are crisp, clear and easy to access. There’s inbuilt satellite navigation that can be displayed on both screens.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both wireless.
There are USB-A and -C in both the front andrearwhiletheTrackandRidgevariants each have a 50w wireless smartphone charger.
Core has a six-speaker sound system, Track and Ridge get an eight-speaker Sony system with both having controls on the steering wheel as well as voice control.
Driving
There are retractable handles on all four doors that open automatically when the key fob comes in range. Unlike most other vehicles with such door handles that can be awkward to open, those in the J7 open fully square for easy opening.
One safety feature that impressed us was that the car will not move unless the driver’sseatbeltisfastened.Greatidea,let’s hope that others follow the lead.
Not such a good idea, but something that’s becoming increasingly prevalent is that almost all vehicle functions are accessed through the touchscreen rather than using physical controls.
Then there are the various alerts including lane deviation warnings, speed limitanddriverinattentionwarning.While theseareamongthemanyimportantsafety features in the vehicle, and no doubt many drivers will appreciate them, they can be quite intrusive and frequently require the driver to look at the touchscreen instead of the road ahead.
They can be turned off although with most vehicles they then default back on when the engine is stopped. Fortunately, with the Jaecoo that’s not the case and, apartfromthedriverdistractionalert,they remain off until turned on again.
There’s nothing special about the Jaecoo’s drive experience, but that can be
RATINGS
Looks: 9/10
Performance: 7/10
Safety: 7.5/10
Thirst: 8/10
Practicality: 7/10
Comfort: 7.5/10
Tech: 7/10
Value: 8/10
said about most vehicles in the medium SUV field. Having said that it does what the typical family owner wants and does it well. It provides a smooth, quiet and comfortable ride both around town and on the motorway.
Steering is light and responsive.
The dual-clutch automatic takes a bit of getting used to. It’s a bit slow to respond, especially when shifting through lower gears.
Core and Track have three drive modes, Normal, Eco and Sport. The AWD Ridge adds Snow, Mud, Sand and Offroad modes and a full-size spare wheel.
Summary
Chery, somewhat ambitiously, describes Jaecoo as its luxury premium sub-brand but after spending a week behind the wheel,thetagisn’tasfaroffthemarkasyou would think.
Obviously, it doesn’t have the badge prestige of European vehicles of similar size but, with prices starting from $35k driveaway it offers incredible value for money.
It fits perfectly within the mid-sized family SUV category that’s proving so popular at the moment.
Chery’s designers have done an amazing job to craft together a look that’s simple but elegant and one that proved to be a real head-turner wherever we drove. Often followed up by the need to explain that Jaecoo was the upmarket version of the Chinese carmaker Chery.
Jaecoo offers a comprehensive warranty package of eight years/unlimited kilometres, plus capped price servicing and up to eight years roadside assist. The J7 certainly gets our nod as one of the best offerings yet from China, certainly the best SUV. The combination of its understated but stylish looks, excellentinteriorspaceandcomfort,safety equipment and pricing make it well worth checking out.
Jaecoo fits perfectly within the mid-sized family SUV category that’s proving so popular at the moment. (Pictures: Supplied)
There was rain, wind and chilling temperatures on Saturday as the local sporting competitions took to the fields and grounds. Star Weekly photographer LJUBICA VRANKOVIC was braving the cold to shoot some of the action.
Battling the weather gods
Altona’s Colby Redpath tackles Grant Williams. 492302_30
Altona’s James Callaway gets a handball away. 492302_09
Altona’s Samuel Tipper and Spotswood’s Grant Williams. 492302_07
Footscray Rangers. 492154_02
It was the battle between the new teams in Footscray Rangers and Newport Storm. 492154_21
Laverton’s Ben Mccann. 492301_02
Newport Storm’s Rashidi Edward. 492154_10 Laverton’s Brandon Devlin. 492301_26
Sunbury Kangaroos’ Mia Briggs and Carly Blythe tackle Courtney McCormack. 492156_19
Sunshine Heights’ Arian Sarandis tries to get away from Rohan Crawley. 492301_17
Taylors Lakes’ Sarah Sullivan is tackled by Sunbury Kangaroos’ Carly Blythe. 492156_04
Taylors Lakes’ Rebecca Foggie. 492156_30
Sunshine Heights knows the task at hand
By Tara Murray
Every match is a mini elimination final in the run home for Sunshine Heights in the WesternFootballLeaguedivision2season.
The Dragons were in seventh spot heading into the weekend’s matches, after deadline, percentage behind fifth placed Braybrook and sixth placed Albanvale. Only the top five sides will play finals.
Dragons coach Stephen O’Malley said while it wasn’t an ideal position to be in, they know their destiny is in their own hands. “We have to keep on winning,” he said. “We’re taking each week as an elimination final.
“It is what it is and the guys are looking forward to the challenge.
“Making finals is what we want. We’re taking it one week at a time.”
O’Malley knows they have their challenges ahead of them in the last four rounds of the season.
They faced Laverton on the weekend, then face Braybrook (fifth), the Suns (fourth) and North Footscray (second) in the run home.
O’Malley said getting wins in the first of those two matches were vital in ensuring they played finals.
“It would give us some good momentum to make finals,” he said.
Sunshine Heights knows it still has work to do.
The Dragons were given a big scare against Tarneit in their most recent match against bottom side, Tarneit.
O’Malley said they had a few players out but gave credit to the Titans, who are still searching for their first win of the season.
“We didn’t come to play and were not in therightmindset,”hesaid.“Weletayoung Tarneit side get momentum.
“They’ve come a long way from the start of the season. It is really hard to stop momentum when a side hasn’t won a
game, we got there in the end and took the four points.
“We’ll work on things this week.”
O’Malley said they need to make sure they were switched on no matter who they play in every game and every quarter.
The Dragons were set to get a few players back for their match against Laverton on Saturday, after deadline.
O’Malley said they decided to give some players an extra week to come back from injuries instead of rushing them back.
“They’ve had some changes as well,” he said. “They pushed Braybrook last week and have some momentum.
“It’s on us to come out and play well. We didn’t play well against Laverton last time, sowewanttogetsomeredemptionandsee where we sit.”
In other matches that were set to be played on Saturday, Braybrook was in action against the Western Rams, and Albanvale was to play West Footscray.
Cycling for success
By Peter Howe
This month’s Don Deeble nominee Nicola Morris decided when Covid hit that she would like to participate in triathlons.
Not having any real experience on a bike apart from riding around on her mountain bike, her family went looking for options.
“Brunswick Cycling Club had come and try junior clinic on a Sunday morning, so I went and loved it,” reflected Morris who already loved swimming and running.
“In 2022 my mum entered me into my first race which was Alpe De Buffalo which consisted of three races, a time trial, criterium and road race up Mount Buffalo as part of the Victorian Junior Road Series, it was so much fun.”
Herpassionforthesportgrewfromthere.
Next was the Victorian Junior Track Academy at the Darebin International Sports Complex velodrome.
“The velodrome track is very steep, so it was fair to say I spent my early learning at thebottomoftheslope,butIhavegradually become more confident.“
Not to be deterred, another discipline of cycling was offered to Morris and she tried Cyclocross, which is a form of off-road racing that combines elements of road cycling, mountain biking and steeplechase.
Like a duck to water, Morris took first placeinthe2022VictorianStateCyclocross Championship under-15 women and went on to finish second in the Australian Championships.
She won gold at the Australian Championships the next year.
“I just love the challenge that cycling provides,” she said. “You have to push yourself because it is you against the field, but I also like to challenge others. I have two older brothers who are also into sport, and we like to boast about who’s the best.”
Triathlons were not put on hold despite her growing love affair with cycling. Morrisisintheswimmingpoolat5.30am twice a week, she spends up to three hours per week on her stationary bike.
She also travels to Torquay once a week to do a core and leg session and she does one other weight session a week.
One of her favourite sessions is riding behind an old postie motorbike ridden by one of her favourite coaches, Cam McFarlane.
“He is known by most as Postie Cam and has had a positive impact on so many bike riders over the years.
There’s then a three hour riding session on Sundays.
“It’s the friendships that you make that
keeps bringing you back,“ she said.
Morris was recently selected for the under-17 Australian track development team that went to Malaysia to train and compete in the YSD Track Series.
“I soon got sick of the huge rice bowl and chicken wings we got every day for lunch, but otherwise it was an amazing experience and opportunity,” she said.
Morris is starting to collect an array of medals.
In2024shewongoldintheunder-15girls pointsraceattheNationalChampionships, along with three other medals.
ShefinishedsecondintheNationalRoad race and first in the National Cyclocross Championships.
In 2024 she was named the AusCycling Victorian women’s junior track rider of the year.
This year at an under-17 competitor Morris won three bronze medals at the Victorian Track State Championships, represented Victoria at the National Track Championshipsandfinishedsecondinthe
Sports shorts
VTCA
Sunshine YCW has announced two signings for the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Evans Clark Shield season. Jordan Linehan joins the club from Coburg, with the Cougars saying he brings serious talent, experience, and energy to their line-up. Ryan Cumberland is making the switch from Wallan in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association The Cougars said he was ready to take the game to new heights with some serious firepower at the crease.
VPL
Keilor Park has locked in promotion into the National Premier League women’s competition for next season. The Eagles along with Avondale will finish in the top two positions in the Victorian Premier League women’s no matter the results in the final five rounds. “This promotion signals a massive milestone for the club and women’s football here at KPSC,“ the club said. “It is a tribute to all the hard work, belief, and talent to everyone on and off the pitch - in particular our fantastic senior team and coaching staff.“ The Eagles were set to face neighbours Calder United on Friday night, after deadline.
Western FL
National Gravel Championships.
Morris has also just recently been selected to race in the New Zealand 2025 Yunca Junior Tour of Southland in SeptemberaspartoftheAusCyclingJunior Pathways Program and has been offered a position with the AusCycling Victorian Road Development Academy.
Morris is inspired by Olympic gold medallist Grace Brown, Australian professional and Brunswick Cycling Club’s Ruby Roseman-Gannon and Dutch cyclist Demi Vollering.
“My dream is to one day be selected to represent my country at the elite level, to finish on the podium and to be the best I can be.”
The Don Deeble Sports Star Award is sponsored by the Yarraville Club Cricket Club, Strathmore Community Bank, the Deer Park Club, Ascot Vale Sports and Trophies and Star Weekly Newspapers.
If you would like to nominate someone orattendadinner,contactswrsportsclub@ gmail.com or 0408 556 631.
North Sunshine is already putting the call out for numbers for next year’s Western Football League women’s season. The Roadrunners have struggled for wins this season along with having playing numbers each week. The club said on social media they are rebuilding the side and looking for new people to join them. “We might be struggling now, but with the right people, anything’s possible,“ the club said. “Be part of the rebuild. Be part of the comeback. Be part of our team. Whether you’re a seasoned player, returning to the game, or keen to give AFL a try for the first time — there’s a guernsey waiting for you.. Details: https://forms.gle/69dJAdcAq4r1AhAP
WNBL
Keilor Thunder’s Jasmine Dickey has signed with the Southside Flyers for the upcoming WNBL season. Dickey won a championship with the Flyers in 2023-24
FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au
Brimbank & North West Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly
James Vella. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 338828_08
Nicola Morris. (Supplied)
Keilor family’s Melbourne Cup joy with Basilinna to run
By Tara Murray
The first horse David and Robyn Wallace wanted to buy shares in wasn’t available, leading to a bit of disappointment.
That moment has now become a blessing disguise.
The couple, along with Robyn’s sister Jill, and their children then decided to invest shares in a horse called Basilinna.
Victory in the Lexus Andrew Ramsden in May saw Basilinna and her owners earn a trip to the Melbourne Cup later this year. It was Basilinna’s first trip past 2500 metres which she won with a dominant leading display.
David said it was pretty exciting. to have a horse in the Melbourne Cup.
The Wallace family has called Keilor home for more than 115 years.
“It is one of only four horses so far to be
in the Melbourne Cup,” he said. “There’s onefromthestates[America]andonefrom England are among them.
“We could not be more excited about to be in a sporting event like this. You can’t beat it.
“It’s something that all horse owners dream of.”
David said that his sister-in-law had shares in horses previously and it led them to think about it.
Robyn had been attending race meets at Moonee Valley for a number of years.
The pair went to see Emma-Lee and David Browne in Pakenham about getting involved in a horse.
“Robyn saw another horse and it wasn’t available, which turned out to be a good thing,” he said.
“They suggested this horse that they had bred themselves.
“We weren’t sure to be honest.”
The Wallaces’ have spent much of their time since Basilinna won her way into the
Falcons keep flying
By Tara Murray
The City West Falcons produced one of the quarters of the Victorian Netball League season to take another step closer to the grand final.
The Falcons faced Boroondara Express on Wednesday in a battle of one and two, and also the past two grand finals.
It couldn’t have been a much better first quarter from the Falcons, who led 12-2 early.
At 22-6 at quarter time, the match was all but done.
The Express showed some fight in the second and third quarters with the margin still 18 goals at three quarter time.
The Falcons finished off strongly to win 72-48.
Falcons coach Marg Lind said the first quarter was definitely not what they were expecting.
She said they had been waiting for finals for a number of weeks, having locked in top spot weeks ago.
“We just went for it,” Lind said. “That set us up.
“They were pretty much error free, converted off every turnover which made a lot of difference.
“We did a lot of homework on the opposition, been prepping for a while and it paid off.”
Lind said they know there’s a lot of pressure on them and was pleased to see the playing group stand up to that pressure.
The Express fought back in the middle two quarters which Lind thought would happen.
She said they were still happy with how they played the middle two quarters.
“I think we did a good job defensively adjustingtotheirpatterns,”shesaid.“They also switched a few players in and did a bit of prep on all of them.
“We switched up quickly which we haven’t done against them and in attack we moved the ball really well.”
With the margin blown out, the Falcons rotated some players around with Chelsea Imansani and Lucia Fauonuku coming on and doing well.
Lind said they were mindful that it was a longer finals series.
Jane Cook shot 55 goals for the Falcons, before getting a rest late in the game.
The Falcons 23 and under side upset the Hawks in their elimination final, 55-51.
Lind said they got off a good start and were in front, which they hadn’t been against the Hawks this season.
“We were pretty steady,” she said.
“They did respond but they did a lot of homework on them and we tidied up a few
things in our attack and they definitely helped.”
Lind said she thought Lani Fauonuku, who shot 37 goals, played well and Liv Powell got involved when it really counted.
Lind said they just focused on taking it one week and a time and chipping away.
The championship side will now face the
Cup on May 17 talking about what is to come in the coming months.
“It’s beginner’s luck,” he said. “It is really exciting for us to be the first time we’ve had a share in a horse. It’s fantastic.
“Weareoverthemoon.Ourson,daughter and son-in-law are also part of it.
“Robyn has now bought shares in another horse.”
The horse also finished second in the Port Adelaide Cup on May 3, while it won at Moonee Valley in March.
She has had 10 places in her 19 starts, including three wins.
OneofthebiggestraceswastheKennedy Oaks where she finished third in 2023. She also competed in the Melbourne Cup carnival last year in the Matriarch Stakes. Davidsaidthetrainerswerestillworking out the schedule for Basilinna in the lead up to the first Tuesday in November.
Hunter strikes national gold
Young Sunshine West fighter Hunter Pham is making waves on the national stage, taking home gold at the 2025 Karate Australia National Championships.
Hunter began his karate journey at just five years old at Samurai Karate in Sunshine West.
The past two years Hunter has consistentlymedaledindevelopment tournaments and represented his dojo in the state team in various competitions around Victoria. It earned him a spot at the 2025 Karate Australia National Championships team in July.
Hunter said he loves karate for a number of reasons.
“I get to make new friends, train with my sister, and stay fit,” he said. “What I really love about karate is that after a couple of years, I get to do cool stuff—like takedowns.
“I do 11 sessions over the span of five days [a week] The best part of training is that I can keep improving at karate.”
“It feels like 1,000 gears of hard work—and a lot of good luck.”
Hunter said he feels grateful to have won gold at the national championships as the event only happens once a year.
Hehasbigambitionsgoingforward. “I want to win Oceania, become a black belt, win the World Cup, and be the best in the world,” he said.
Hunter’s mum Tien Pham said the goldmedalwasaproudmomentbuilt on years of resilience, discipline, and growth.
His dad Tom said karate was amazing for his son, who also loves maths.
“Karate has been a game changer,” he said. “It’s helped him manage his emotions and stress.
“He used to cry at the drop of a hat, but the discipline and self-control he’slearnedthroughkaratehasreally transformed him.
Hawks for a spot in a grand final this week, with a double chance.
Lind said the Hawks, who only lost by two goals last time they played, were a good aggressive team.
The 23 and under side will face Melbourne University Lightning in a knockout semi final.
Hunter Pham. (Supplied)
Robyn and Jill Stewart with Basilinna. (Supplied)
Lucia Fauonuku. (Dave Callow/Netball Victoria)
Albion remains in the battle for top five
Albion continues to tick to the boxes as it staysinWesternFootballLeaguedivision1 finals contention.
Four teams were fighting for one finals spot not long ago, but that now appears to be down to just two with four rounds remaining.
The Cats sit outside the top five, just percentage behind Spotswood.
Cats coach Blake Richards said the equation for the rest of the season is quite simple.
“We have to continue to win,” he said. “Spotswood is doing the right things as well.
“It’s a nice challenge for the rest of the year. Hopefully the boys can achieve it.
“It’s got to that time of the year when it’s cold and getting to training is hard. To be playing for something is hopefully driving the group.”
On Saturday, the Cats were able to account for Newport, 16.8 (104)-6.6 (42).
Richards said they were expecting tough
conditions, but they weren’t as bad as they expected.
He said they had set up a game plan for the wet weather, which didn’t come to fruition.
“They [Newport] came out and really controlledthegameearlyon,”hesaid.“We were able to turn it around and we got on top and it didn’t give up.”
Richards said they changed things up at half time to try and extend their 12 point lead, including putting an extra man behind the ball.
After the main break the Cats kicked 12 goalstofourinthesecondhalftorunaway with it.
Jesse Cavanagh kicked four goals for the Cats, while four other players kicked two goals each.
Richards said their defensive group stood strong led by Josiah Garisto and Maysen Murgov.
He said Cavanagh impressed as did Jye Temple, who came into the side for this
firstgameoftheseasonduetotheexpected weather, kicking two goals.
Richards said it was nice to get the win to help celebrate a couple of big milestones on Saturday.
Cody Bench played his 250th game and Ross Whelan played his 300th game.
Richards said both players and their families had done a lot for the club and it was nice to reward them.
It’ll be Friday night lights this week for the Cats, as they face Parkside this week.
RIchards said they would focus on playing the way they needed to for the rest of the season.
In other results, Caroline Springs beat Parkside, 13.13 (91)-8.10 (58).
Sunshine fell short against Yarraville, losing 12.19 (91)-8.5 (53).
Indivision2,BraybrookbeattheWestern Rams, Sunshine Heights beat Laverton while Albanvale lost to West Footscray.
Keilor’s tough loss
By Tara Murray
Keilor Thunder will be better for the run after a first up loss in the National Basketball League 1 South finals.
After an interrupted few weeks with injuries and unavailabilities, the Thunder was thrown into the biggest challenge in thefirstweekoffinals,facinganundefeated Geelong United.
The performance was one that Thunder coach Kristi Harrower would like to forget with United winning, 84-69.
“It was disappointing and we played terribly,” she said. “It is OK as we need some more games under our belts.
“We’ve had such a disrupted season, especially the last month with [Maddy] Rocciout,KaseyBurtonout,IssyBourneat Asia Cup.
“It was a good thing for us to get a game underourbelt.Itdoesmeanit’salldoordie now but we’re better off that we get to play another game.”
Harrower returned to coaching the side after missing the last six games with Australian Opal commitments.
Bournealsomissedthosesixgameswith the Opals, while Rocci, who was meant to be away with the Opals, missed those games with injury.
The pair returned to the Thunder on Saturday night. Tayah Burrows and Madi Puli have been ruled out for the season which has had impact on the Thunder.
“Rocci has been injured and she needs time to get back into it,” Harrower said.
“Issy hopped off a plane on Tuesday.
“She didn’t play a heap of minutes.”
Harrower said there’s a reason why Geelongistheteamtobeatthisseasonand they really got after them defensively.
She said they didn’t handle the physicality and they weren’t able to stop the momentum.
Geelong jumped out of the blocks and led by 11 points at quarter time, before extending the lead to 14 points at the main break.
TheThundergotthemarginbacktoeight pointsatthefinalbreak,butcouldn’tfinda way in the final quarter.
“That was the worst game I’ve seen us
Abers halt Sharks’ surge in top-two clash
Hillside’s top two hopes took a hit in the Essendon District Football League women’s premier division on Saturday.
Facing Aberfeldie in a top of the table clash, the match was vital in how the top two and top four would look.
It was all Abers in the first half, but they weren’t able to put scoreboard pressure on as they kicked 2.8 for the half.
The Sharks finally got their first goal of the game in the third quarter, but it was quickly answered by Abers.
Abers continued to have all the answers with Mo Hope having a day out up forward, finishing the day with five goals but could have easily had more had she converted.
Two late goals from the Sharks weren’t enough as they lost, 6.10 (46)-3.3 (21).
Caitlin Sargent kicked two goals for the Sharks.
Hannah Ibrahim and Emily PaternowerenamedtheSharksbest.
The Sharks slip to third, a game off the top two sides.
play,” Harrower said. “It wasn’t Keilor basketball and we can only get better this week.
“We only lost by 15 points and had moments to get it back. I look at it as a positive.”
Bourne top scored with 25 points, while Jasmine Dickey had 22 points.
Harrower said they would continue to soldieronfortherestofthefinals,knowing that there are challenges no matter who they play.
It will be a grand final rematch on Saturday night at Keilor Basketball Stadium.
TheThunder’sBigVyouthchampionship women’s side kept its season alive with victory against the Altona Gators on Sunday.
A 25-11 first quarter set up the win and they were able to extend the lead the next two quarters.
The Gators won the final quarter, but the damagehadbeendoneastheThunderwon 85-64.
Hayley Courts top scored with 26 points for the Thunder.
None of the top three face each other in the final two rounds. With no other team having beaten a top three side, the Sharks will need an upsetiftheyaretosecureinadouble chance.
In women’s division 1, Burnside HeightsforfeitedagainstStrathmore.
The weekend’s results mean that the Bears will face Westmeadows in the first week of finals in a knock out semi final no matter the results in the final round.
Meanwhile in men’s premier division,Keilorhadadayoutagainst East Keilor, while Deer Park proved no match for Strathmore.
St Albans and Hillside both had wins in division 1 to help their finals chances, while Taylors Lakes are now a game outside the top five after losing to Oak Park.
In division 2, Keilor Park snuck home against the Northern Saints, while Burnside Heights lost to Hadfield.
Tara Murray Cody Bench. (Ljubica Vrankovic)
Isobelle Wightman. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 488185_16
